Top Things to look for in an
Inflatable SUP

image of selection of paddle boards at Mike's Paddle

SUPs abound on the internet, and sometimes all the proprietary technology jargon gets in the way of understanding what you would actually be purchasing. Here's a quick introduction into iSUP construction, in the form of a "Top 3 Things to Look For" list:

Layers, plural

wo to three layers of PVC fabric are much harder to puncture than one. Especially at the rails of the board, where your paddle blade could repeatedly hit the board, or where you might bump a friend to raft up with them, or maybe you get too friendly with some barnacles under a pier... It's good to have durable surfaces built into your board. The other bonus of having multi-layer construction is that your iSUP will be stiffer across the board (hah.) which means you can avoid being the bottom of a (shallow) "V" on a soft iSUP.

More than Glue

his is more of premium feature to look for, but check out how the seams of the board are held together. Lots of iSUPs are put together using PVC glue and, honestly, I think we only have one iSUP in the shop right now with welded construction; The rest are glued. So. If I can get a PVC welded board, cue a satisfactory "ooh-la-la." PVC welding is a fancy way of saying that two pieces of plastic were heat-melted together. It's much stronger than glueing two pieces of PVC together since the welded joints are bonded at a molecular level. With PVC welded construction, you're not going to spring a leak easily, if at all. Of course, moving up in technology means the price tag goes up too, but preventing air leaks is such a nice perk, especially if you're purchasing an iSUP with its longevity in mind.

Water Time

ltimately, does it get in you on the water? Are you nodding "yes"? Well, we agree, that's the whole point! I have definitely underestimated an iSUP rental that got me on a glacial lake near Banff, Canada. I've also had a turtle pass me by on an iSUP in Costa Rica. Did the iSUP brand matter in those moments? Not so much. As far as we're concerned, if you get a PFD and a board leash with your iSUP, that's great! Be safe out there! and have fun :)

See you on the water soon!

Come try it out!

While internet reviews are great to learn about gear, the best thing to do is come down to the shop and try it out on the water! With all boards there will be a level of personal preference, and the best way to figure out if it will work for you is to try it out yourself!

Demo Appointment

2024 Tahe SupYak + Kayak Kit

$699.00

AVAILABLE NOW FOR PREORDER!

The BEACH SUP-YAK is a stable, lightweight and easy to use inflatable paddle board package for 1-person use or 2-person kayak use with the available kayak kit. With a 450lb/200kg max load there’s plenty of extra capacity for kids, pets and gear! The innovative design combines comfort and convenience for endless play time on the water with family and friends whether standing, seated or lounging around.

STAND UP AND EXPLORE – Stable and sturdy underfoot thanks to high-pressure drop-stitch construction paired with a confidence-inspiring shape. With a capacity of 450lbs/200kg the entire family can join in the fun together and be walking on water in no time!

SIT DOWN AND CRUISE – Available elevated seats, footrests and hybrid paddles (two sets included with item 107253) are easy to set-up, converting from paddle board to kayak in seconds. They provide unmatched comfort and control for either 1-person or 2-person use by optimizing body position and alignment for kayaking. The innovative Daisy Chain Attachment System lets you customize seat and footrest position for riders of all shapes and sizes.

LOUNGE AROUND – The Daisy Chain Attachment System creates a clutter free space to call home on the water while you play or relax. A soft get grippy deck pad runs the entire length of the board, perfect for pets, kids, yoga and naps.